The Global Citizen Waislitz Awards 2026 For Changemakers Ending Extreme Poverty ($USD 300,000 Total Cash Prize)

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Applications are open for The Global Citizen Waislitz Awards 2026. Celebrating its twelfth year, The Global Citizen Waislitz Awards are annual cash prizes totaling $300,000 that recognize the excellence of individuals in their work to end extreme poverty.

The grand prize and two additional prizes are $100,000 each, for a total of three prizes. The awards are presented by the Waislitz Foundation and Global Citizen. The Waislitz foundation exists to create a positive social impact locally and globally through innovative projects that empower individuals to meet their full potential and make a measurable difference to the world.

The Waislitz foundation exists to create a positive social impact locally and globally through innovative projects that empower individuals to meet their full potential and make a measurable difference to the world.

Global Citizen Waislitz Awards Prize Details

The 2026 Global Citizen Waislitz Awards feature three awards totaling $300,000 USD. They will be profiled in editorial pieces that will be featured on the Global Citizen platform and social media.

Global Citizen Waislitz Prize
- $100,000 winner based on all five criteria below
Disruptor Award
- $100,000 winner who excels in the “Disruption” criteria
Global Citizens’ Choice Award
- $100.00 winner selected with input from online voting from the Global Citizen community

Who is Eligible to Apply?

Entrants aged eighteen (18) years of age or older from anywhere in the world are eligible to apply for the awards.

Evaluation Criteria

Global Citizenship
- How does the applicant embody and exemplify the values and practices of a Global Citizen?
Proof of Concept
- Does the applicant have a strong proof of concept with at least 1-2 years of impact towards ending extreme poverty?
Disruption
- Has the applicant created measurable impact in an innovative manner that disrupts the systems that allow for extreme poverty to exist?
Scalability
- How would this award enable/support the applicant to scale or improve their work?
Adaptability
- Can the applicant demonstrate examples of their ability to adapt and evolve to changing conditions?